Australia has faced a significant challenge with wildfires, as the latest incident in Queensland on October 31, 2024, adds to the growing concern over tree cover loss. Over the years, the country has seen a fluctuating trend in tree cover loss due to various drivers, with wildfires being a significant contributor. The data reveals that while there has been a net loss of approximately 0.92 million hectares in tree cover, there has also been a gain of around 1.60 million hectares, indicating some recovery or reforestation efforts.
The impact of wildfires has been particularly notable, with years like 2019 and 2020 witnessing massive losses due to these incidents. In 2019 alone, wildfires accounted for nearly 80% of the total tree cover loss. Shifting agriculture, forestry, and urbanization also play roles in this environmental issue, but to a lesser extent compared to the destruction caused by wildfires.
Explore country profileThe area of tree cover extent in Australia stands at over 42 million hectares, which has seen a net change of -1.03% over the years. This loss of tree cover not only affects the natural landscape but also has broader implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the health of ecosystems. The latest fire alert in Queensland is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against wildfires and the need for sustained efforts to protect and restore Australia's forests.
